Thank you for your interest in the doctoral programs in Public Policy at the Georgia Institute of Technology. The Fall 2025 application deadline is December 15, 2024.
The GRE general test is required. (Updated 3/28/2023)
Ph.D. Program
The School of Public Policy at Georgia Tech primarily trains specialists who study and work in policy fields related to the science and engineering strengths of the Institute. Our areas of specialization include: Energy and Environmental Policy, Information and Communications Policy, Science and Technology Policy, and Urban and Regional Economic Development Policy. In the School of Public Policy, you will work closely with faculty to receive the training needed to address real-world problems.
Our doctoral students come from a variety of backgrounds, with some having work experience before joining the program, and others coming straight from an undergraduate or other graduate degree. We have a large number of students with science or engineering backgrounds, as well as many students with social science or humanities degrees. Our student body is diverse and international, and we encourage students with an interest in public policy to apply, whatever their background. Georgia Tech is among the top-ranked public universities in the United States and our School benefits from this vibrant academic environment as well as our location in the very livable city of Atlanta.
Application Process
The application process for the doctoral program in Public Policy requires applicants to submit the following:
- Application fee ($75 for Domestic Applicants / $85 for International Applicants)
- Official transcripts from all schools attended
- Official GRE Scores
- GRE scores can be sent to the university code R5248. GRE, IETLS, and TOEFL scores are received by the Graduate Admissions Office.
- Admissions Essays
- Three Letters of Recommendations
- CV
- International Students should see additional requirements
In a typical year, we admit approximately eight to 10 doctoral students and about half of these are U.S. citizens and half are international students. We generally admit full-time students who are awarded an assistantship that covers tuition and provides a monthly stipend of at least 2,174 per month. It is not necessary to select a research advisor during the application process.
Application for Joint Ph.D. Program with GSU
The application process for the joint doctoral program in Public Policy with Georgia State University’s Andrew Young School of Policy Studies and Georgia Institute of Technology’s School of Public Policy requires applicants to submit applications and supporting documents to Georgia Tech and Georgia State University. The $75 non-refundable application fee includes the submission of both applications.
Please see the Joint Ph.D. Program with GSU page for full application instructions.